Sunderland youth boss Kevin Ball had no complaints after they were dumped out of the FA Youth Cup by Preston North End.

Championship side Preston North End prevailed on penalties, winning 3-0 in a shoot-out following a 2-2 draw. Ryan Noble and Craig Lynch were Sunderland's goal scorers.

Ball told SAFC-TV: "There's probably a lot to reflect on.

"Yes, it's disappointing to lose the game on penalties after being ahead on two occasions.

"It's difficult after games because everyone's frustrated and looking for reasons why. There's been a few home truths said to one or two in there tonight because I think it needed to be said.

"We told them and I think they accepted that. The players had a real go tonight - both teams tried to do it right. We created enough chances to win the game in 90 minutes and extra time.

"It's a cliche but if you don't put your chances away you give yourself a chance of getting beat and we ended up putting ourselves in that position.

"Youth football's about development and it's about how they progress. It's important they learn from tonight. I hope it's upset them because I'm upset, but we'll talk about it tomorrow and move on.

"You won't see me coming in with a face like a slapped backside and I don't expect any of the players to be coming in like that either."